Stanley J. Kenyon

MONMOUTH - Stanley Jay Kenyon lost his courageous struggle with cancer on June 27, 2005. He was the son of Virgil and Louise Kenyon, born June 10, 1937 in McMinnville, Ore. The family moved to Springfield and then to Junction City, Ore., where he attended a one-room school until 6th grade, Junction City Junior High and Junction City High School. He played baseball, football, basketball and ran track. He was elected Student Body President by his classmates. Stan received Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from Oregon College of Education Western Oregon University and Doctor of Education from Oregon State University. He began teaching high school, biology and English at Waldport High in 1959. He became assistant registrar at O.C.E. in 1963 and registrar/ director of admissions from 1967-1979. He worked at Black Butte Ranch and in investments for a short time. From 1982-1998 he served as City Manager for Monmouth, Ore., a job he enjoyed immensely. His management philosophy was hire the best people you can find and pay them accordingly. Many former employees said he was the best boss they ever had. While in college he lettered in football and track. He was chosen all conference defensive back and held records in the half-mile event. He was elected All-American and Joe College in the 50's. Later he and several O.C.E. grads began a 50's football scholarship. He married Wanda Stevens in 1958 in Coos Bay, Ore. Their family includes Laurie and Alan McLean, and their children, Max, Amanda, and Dana; Jay and Debbie Kenyon, and their daughters, Emily and Julia. Stan loved to play golf and watch his grandchildren perform in sports and music. He was proud of their school achievements. He and Wanda took them on "trips of wonderment" that will leave memories forever. He is also survived by sisters, Donna Templeton of Oakville, Ore. and Myrna Miller of Carthage, S.D.; and many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Catherine Reynolds. He joined Creekside Golf Club after retirement and made friends with golfers who visited and supported him along with his many lifelong buddies. On his CaringBridge website, there were 20, 000 visits during his eight-month battle to check on him and leave encouraging messages. He felt that all of the messages, visits and prayers validated his life; it surprised him that so many told him that they loved him. Stan is free from his illness and enjoying his Heavenly reward for living life with love and integrity. All of us will miss him and think of his positive contributions to those who knew him. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: 50's Football Scholarship Fund at Western Oregon University, Willamette Valley Hospice, a pint of blood to the American Red Cross, CaringBridge.org, or the American Cancer Society. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Fri., July 1, 2005 at Western Oregon University Football Stadium in Monmouth. A reception will follow at Gentle House in Monmouth.